The discovery of a well-preserved Roman town in Cambridgeshire has captured the attention of historians and archaeologists alike. The town, located near Great Staughton, was unearthed during survey work for a solar farm and has since been granted protected status as a scheduled monument. This historic find sheds light on the ancient Roman presence in the region and provides valuable insights into the daily life and activities of its inhabitants.
Uncovering the Roman Town
The buried archaeological features of the Roman settlement cover a vast area of 31 hectares (77 acres) and include a variety of structures such as ditches, pits, post holes, and gravel surfaces. These remnants offer a glimpse into the layout of the town, showcasing its streets and buildings that reflect a highly organised urban settlement. According to Historic England, the discovery of these features provides a unique opportunity to study the ancient Roman civilization in the east of England.
Artefacts and Evidence
In addition to the architectural remains, a wealth of artefacts has been recovered from the site, including pottery, animal bone, glass, copper alloy objects, iron objects, coins, and shells. These artefacts offer clues about the daily activities and industries that thrived in the Roman town. Evidence also suggests the presence of pottery kilns and blacksmith forges, indicating a level of industrial activity within the settlement.
The layout of the town reveals a central open space with trackways radiating from it, forming a network of roads that connect various areas of the settlement. Rectangular enclosures and large pits scattered throughout the site hint at different areas designated for specific purposes, such as residential, commercial, or industrial activities. The presence of a Roman villa overlooking the town further highlights the social hierarchy and urban planning of the ancient inhabitants.
Historical Significance
Duncan Wilson, the chief executive of Historic England, emphasized the significance of the discovery, stating that the Roman town near Great Staughton provides valuable insights into Roman life in the region. The scale and diversity of the archaeological features offer a unique opportunity to understand the daily routines, social structures, and economic activities of the ancient inhabitants. The town’s proximity to streams that may have been altered for industrial purposes adds another layer of complexity to the site’s historical significance.
Victoria Oleksy, the associate director at AOC Archaeology Group, highlighted the rarity and importance of the discovery, noting that the site has the potential to significantly contribute to our understanding of Roman settlement patterns. The vast expanse of the archaeological features and the variety of artefacts unearthed underscore the town’s importance as a key site for further research and exploration.
Preservation Efforts
To safeguard the Roman town, the developers behind the renewable energy project, Brockwell Storage & Solar, have amended their plans to exclude any solar development on the land. Instead, the area will be designated for pasture, preserving the archaeological remains for future generations. Historic England and Cambridgeshire county council are working closely with East Park Energy to ensure the care and management of the newly scheduled monument.
Chris Bryant, the heritage minister, emphasized the importance of preserving and protecting historic treasures like the Roman town near Great Staughton. He highlighted the significance of unearthing and studying such sites to expand our knowledge and understanding of the past. The discovery of the Roman town not only offers a glimpse into ancient Roman life but also serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.
In conclusion, the discovery of the Roman town near Great Staughton in Cambridgeshire represents a significant milestone in the study of Roman civilization in Britain. The well-preserved remains, diverse artefacts, and intricate layout of the settlement offer a valuable glimpse into the daily life and activities of its ancient inhabitants. By granting protected status to the site and preserving its historical significance, we ensure that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the region.